The birthday dress actually got finished just in time for my weekend away.

After blogging about the skirt I decided on this lovely pattern for the bodice. The vintage style just seemed to compliment the poodles!

Using a plain cotton to line I used this to make up & fit first. The pattern made up true to measurement (learn valuable lesson from past experience to make to body measurement not retail dress size) and the only adjustment made was to take a little fullness out of bra cup by increasing size of top dart on lining &increasing side gathers on outer fabric.

Keeping the button detail on the top section, a zip was prick stitched into skirt; hand stitching ment I could enjoy some sunny rays at the same time🌞 I always find cutting the button holes scary so love this tip I read somewhere about putting pin at end…

Living life with a chronic illness is definitely not easy. But I do my best to push through all the barriers this illness puts in front of me! In my heart and mind, I believe maintaining a positive outlook on all situations in life will carry us through to much better times! I hope you find the information that I provide both helpful and inspirational!